The Air Force Recruiting Service released its first smart phone application called “USAF Make it Fly.” Available for Apple iPhones, a version for Android devices also is expected this month. Make it Fly is designed to challenge users by allowing them to build and fly their own aircraft. Users select from different fuselage, wing, engine, and weapons options to create the best aircraft configuration to complete a series of nine mission objectives. “This is the first app intended to inspire an association of science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines with the Air Force,” said Brig. Gen. Balan Ayyar, AFRS commander. He said such apps “will play an increasingly important role in our efforts to connect with future airmen.” Earlier this year, Air Education and Training Command released its official app, “US Air Force Airmen Fundamentals,” geared towards persons entering the service. (Randolph release)
The Pentagon announced new long-term agreements with four defense companies May 13 to develop and produce large numbers of low-cost cruise missiles. And while the effort will focus mostly on the Army to start, it pairs with Air Force efforts to find more affordable munitions.